Changing the trajectory of cognitive decline?

Albert, MS. Clinical implications of basic research. NEJM 2007; 357:502-503.

This brief article describes recent findings in mouse models of cognitive loss. An enriched environment, containing many objects a mouse can explore, enhances learning and memory. Hippocampal neurogenesis is increased but not olfactory bulb. A model described by Fischer et al (Nature 2007) correlates with histone acetylation. Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor injections also facilitates memory. Histone acetylation is associated with synaptic plasticity.